The work of air traffic controllers is typically considered essential during government shutdowns. Unfortunately, sequestration does not allow for such designation. This has resulted in the imposition of furloughs that will have a negative impact on the entire National Airspace System. An amendment being offered by Senator Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) to the Continuing Resolution would provide agencies some flexibility necessary to achieve sequester savings while prioritizing essential functions. The flexibility is clearly needed to ensure these functions are not disrupted by the sequester. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association supports the Blunt amendment and urges its adoption during the current Continuing Resolution debate.